Meet the Auria Travel Team

Markus Kendall-Young

Founder

I’m Markus Kendall-Young, the founder of Auria Travel, and I’m delighted to bring my lifelong love of travel back to where it all began – my hometown of Ashby de la Zouch.

Travel has shaped my life and career for over three decades, and I’m proud to now lead Auria Travel as its Director and founder.

My travel story began in the mid-1990s as airline cabin crew with some of the UK’s leading airlines, where I quite literally earned my wings and discovered a lifelong passion for exploring the world. Those early years took me across the Americas, the Far East, Africa and Australasia, and sparked a deep appreciation for what truly makes a holiday special, not just the destination, but the experience.

After leaving aviation, I moved into the UK travel industry, working with major high-street travel brands and helping to launch flagship retail stores. Over the years, I’ve planned thousands of holidays for clients, always with the same goal: to create trips that feel personal, seamless and memorable.

Today, I’m a specialist in cruises and tailor-made holidays, and an avid traveller myself. I’ve now completed 48 cruises, with number 50 firmly in sight by January 2026. From ocean and river cruising to luxury, expedition and small-ship experiences, I bring genuine first-hand knowledge to every recommendation. If you’re considering a cruise, chances are I’ve sailed something very similar myself.

Alongside cruising, I specialise in bespoke, tailor-made travel. Whether that’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, a multi-centre long-haul itinerary, a luxury honeymoon, a family holiday or a simple sunshine escape done properly, I take the time to understand exactly what you want and build your trip around you. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach at Auria Travel.

What truly sets Auria Travel apart is service. Myself and my team are there before you book, while you’re away, and when you return. No call centres, no queues, no being passed from person to person. Just expert advice, honest guidance and a commitment to looking after our customers as if they were travelling ourselves.

If you’re looking for a travel professional who combines experience, expertise and genuine care, I’d love to help you plan your next holiday with Auria Travel.

Ellie-Morgan Bailey-Mason

Assistant Manager - Retail

I'm the Assistant Manager at Auria Travel's Ashby-de-la-Zouch store, and your go-to person for turning travel dreams into reality.

I started my journey in travel when I was 17, working in a high street agency as an apprentice. After completing my qualifications and working my way up to Assistant Manager, I made the exciting move to Auria Travel, where I now help clients plan everything from relaxing beach breaks to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Before diving into the world of travel, I completed A Levels in Civil Law and Business, giving me a strong foundation in customer care and commercial awareness. I bring that into everything I do, making sure your holiday is not just amazing, but also smooth, stress-free, and great value.

I offer all types of holidays, whether it’s a family trip, romantic honeymoon, city break, or long-haul adventure. But where I really shine is in creating bespoke, tailor-made itineraries that you won’t find on the shelf. If you’re looking for something unique and personal, I’m here to build it with you, start to finish.

Travel is more than just a job for me, it’s my passion. My top three destinations so far are Es Cana in Ibiza, Agadir in Morocco, and beautiful Bali. My dream? A road trip through the USA or backpacking across Thailand… maybe one day!

If you're ready to start planning your next getaway, get in touch, I’d love to help you build something unforgettable.

Gracie-Mae Egan-Gara

Apprentice Travel Consultant

My name is Gracie, and I’m the Apprentice here at Auria Travel!

Travel has always been such a huge part of my life. Growing up, I was incredibly lucky to experience various family holidays from a young age. And with family members working in the travel industry, this made me realise how fascinated I have always been by the magic of travel. This inspired me to follow in my family member’s footsteps and start my own journey in this amazing world, where anything is possible and every adventure is waiting to be discovered!

Even though I’m still learning every day, I am so excited to grow my knowledge, gain new experiences, and start helping people plan trips that they’ll remember forever. So far, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some of our incredible clients, and nothing excites me more than helping people tick off their bucket list destinations, discover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories along the way.

One of my favourite places I’ve travelled to so far has to be Disney World in Florida. As a massive Disney fan, there’s truly nothing like walking through Magic Kingdom with a Mickey-shaped pretzel in hand, soaking up the sunshine, and just feeling the magic in the air - it’s an experience I’ll never forget!

My dream in life has always been to explore the world, experience different cultures, taste new foods, and learn about the ways other people live. My ultimate goal is to share that same excitement and passion with others, helping them create trips that are just as magical, memorable, and life-changing as the ones I’ve been lucky enough to experience myself so far.

Travel is more than just going somewhere new - it’s about creating memories, feeling inspired, and discovering the world with your own eyes. I can’t wait to help you start your next adventure and make your travel dreams come true!

Our Mission

We are committed to delivering exceptional service by:

Get Personalised Travel Advice

At Auria Travel, we understand that every traveler is unique. Our dedicated team is here to provide tailored travel advice and assistance to help you plan your perfect getaway. Whether you have questions about destinations, need help with bookings, or want insider tips, we’re just a message away! Reach out to us today and let’s start crafting your dream vacation together.